Obituary of Barbara A. Symonds

Barbara A. Symonds Dundee/Penn Yan: Barbara A. Symonds, age 87, of Penn Yan, previously of Dundee, NY passed away with her husband at her side on Thursday March 11, 2021 at The Homestead, in Penn Yan, N.Y.. Honoring her wishes there will be no calling hours or service at this time. Inurnment will be at a future date in Lakeview Cemetery in Penn Yan, NY. Memorial contributions may be made to Dundee Fire Company Emergency Squad 12 Union St. Dundee, NY 14837 or to a charity of the donor's choice. Barbara was born Dec. 1, 1933 in Painted Post, NY, the daughter of the late Leon Edward and Cora Estella (Prosser) Woodard Sr. She graduated from Dundee Central School as the Salutatorian of the Class of 1951. On Sept. 25, 1953 she married James C. Symonds. A lifelong area resident, she was employed by Yates County for 38 years starting in the Department of Motor Vehicles and retiring as Deputy County Clerk in 1996. Mrs. Symonds was a member of Dresden Order of the Eastern Star. Her greatest joys in life were spending time and caring for her family. She will be remembered by everyone who knew her for her hospitality, and many talents; from cooking, baking, crafting & sewing; her beautiful flower gardens, antiques, camping, playing cards, her 4 legged companions Brandy & Gunther; and just for her hard working and caregiving ways to everyone especially those in their final days. She is dearly loved and will be forever missed by her husband of 67 years, James C. Symonds of Penn Yan; 2 daughters Vicky A. Symonds of Cortland, NY, and Pamela J. (Steve) Carruthers of Dundee; 3 grandchildren Stephany (Pete) Reif of Cortland, Jacy (Michael) Egburtson of Dundee, and Brandon Symonds also of Cortland; 5 great grandchildren Alivia & Emmeline Reif, Ryan &Abigail Egburtson, and Brandon Symonds Jr.; a brother Robert "Red" Woodard of Penn Yan; a sister Mary Allen of O'Fallon, IL; and many nieces, nephews, cousins & in-laws. Besides her parents she was pre-deceased by 2 brothers Leon "Chubb" Woodard, and Jim Woodard, and a sister Joyce Snyder-Schroo. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff and friends in Unit 3 of the Homestead for the love and care given to both Barbara & James Symonds. Arrangements entrusted to the Baird Funeral Home, 36 Water Street, Dundee, NY; to leave online condolences to the family, visit www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.